Jackson Free Press

When I heard about the body of a 15-year-old girl being found at Presidential Hills Park, my initial thought was how the incident will affect the reputation of the park, but then I realized what a horrible thing I was doing to not think about the young lady first.

Sharon Rocha appeared on "The View" this morning to discuss her book about her daughter, Laci Peterson. She felt the need to write the book because she felt that the focus on Scott Peterson's trial overshadowed her late daughter's life. I have no children, but I now have a glimpse of what she may have been dealing with.

Who was Tawana Sandiford, really? Why was she a runaway? What did she like to do? Did she have any friends? Whay was it like for her family to find out that she was dead? Does anyone care?

Are we so desensitized to problems among our youth that it doesn't bother us any more? This was a CHILD - a child who should have been home. And, if not her home - SOMEBODY'S home. Did she feel that no one cared and sought comfort from the wrong people, or was she rebelling against something? We will probably hear about that eventually. But regardless of the reason, she was a human being, not just Number Two in two days. A human being with a heart that no longer beats, and blood that spilled out onto the ground.

For that reason, my heart aches. I mourn the loss of a young lady who could have become a contributing member to society, and I mourn because she will probably be forgotten about very soon by most people.

The next time I take a stroll through Presidential Hills Park, I will think about Tawana and remember that every life is worth something, regardless of what side of the tracks he or she may come from.

To the Sandiford family: you have my deepest sympathy, and I will keep you in my prayers.

Previous Comments

ID

104249

Comment

I know, Latasha, I had the same reaction. I want to *know* her and why she died. This is so tragic, no matter the circustances or that she was a "runaway." If true, that makes it even more tragic.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2006-01-10T00:33:23-06:00